Master Chief – Inside Pulsehttp://insidepulse.com
A pop culture mega-site with Movies, TV, Music, Sports, Comics, Video Games coverage for diehards, including news, reviews, live event coverage, audio podcasts, exclusive interviews and commentary.Fri, 09 Dec 2016 11:00:36 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.6.1A pop culture mega-site with Movies, TV, Music, Sports, Comics, Video Games coverage for diehards, including news, reviews, live event coverage, audio podcasts, exclusive interviews and commentary.Master Chief – Inside PulseyesA pop culture mega-site with Movies, TV, Music, Sports, Comics, Video Games coverage for diehards, including news, reviews, live event coverage, audio podcasts, exclusive interviews and commentary.Master Chief – Inside Pulsehttp://insidepulse.com/wp-content/plugins/powerpress/rss_default.jpghttp://insidepulse.com
Blu-ray Review: Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawnhttp://insidepulse.com/2012/12/23/blu-ray-review-halo-4-forward-unto-dawn/
http://insidepulse.com/2012/12/23/blu-ray-review-halo-4-forward-unto-dawn/#respondMon, 24 Dec 2012 00:00:50 +0000http://insidepulse.com/?p=320491Surely there is no review in the world that I could possibly write that would interest the target audience of this film (Halo fanatics) in the least. I have spent one evening of my life with the video game and the alien creature feature is hardly my preferred genre so I approached this film differently than most who sought it out. And with that in mind I will go ahead and say that I found it to be deeply flawed with very limited upside; a beautiful CGI commercial for the video game it is trying to pimp an obnoxious, mindless militarism that here is personified by the Master Chief. It musters up some balls every now and again in the storytelling department but everything else about it is just so darn wimpy that those risks are just swallowed up into an ocean of blah. Neither insulting or enriching Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn will most likely only be appreciated by those with an emotional attachment to some aspect of the brand while everybody else will be too distracted by the parade of missteps that march on by from beginning to end. I don’t doubt that the folks at 343 Industries gave it their level best here, and the next time they try their hand at feature film-making I will certainly give their product a look, but frankly this specific project is flat and dull.

The story, which was originally a 10-part webisode and serves as a prequel to the Halo 4 game, focuses on Thomas Lasky (Tom Green) a young cadet with a usual set of problems. He is overflowing with natural talent but is unsure of his future in the military both because of his need to go his own way and because of his doubts surrounding the politics of the war his people are engaged in. Of course those doubts are basically mocked by the writers through a host of other characters who spend the first half of the film ostracizing him for his ego and for his inability to stay on script. They are actually rather relentless in the way that they pound home the point that the mission they are on is righteous and that those who step out of line are very bad people. There really isn’t much else to the first 45 minutes or so. The kids interact and go on training missions and bide their time waiting for the aliens to attack. Keeping in mind that this is a lead up to the mission that takes place in the game having the story revolve around young people getting ready to ship out and kick extraterrestrial ass makes sense, my beef is that in this case it makes for mighty poor cinema. Lasky is there wringing his hands about whether to stay on board and battling an allergy that makes breathing difficult for him but once the aliens land and the shooting begins all of those problems are dropped and the story becomes very simplistic, survive the attack and get the hell out of dodge.

Minor Spoiler Alert: Things get a lot easier for these kids when Master Chief himself shows up to lend a hand (aka: save their asses). Seeing as how he is the face of the franchise it really wouldn’t be much of a Halo movie without him and for much of the audience he will be a welcome addition. Personally I don’t really see the appeal as he strikes me as not much more than the figure head of the hard lined conformity that they seem to be touting here. But more than that there just isn’t a whole lot to his character. His big lines are things like “Who here has the best shot” and “Get down.” He’s cold and robotic and just because he’s a certified bad-ass doesn’t mean that I have to like him. The escape he is assisting with is equally as unaffecting and the whole thing feels like something you find after digging through Netflix for three and a half hours. But to be fair visual panache is more the name of the game here than having a solid script and at the very least they do nail that.

I will also defend the project in larger terms and remind that for most of the history of the relationship between film and video games the deal has been that film can try and sell tickets off the back of video game brands but they never have to actually respect the property. They’ll take characters and general ideas and warp them until they fit into what a Hollywood exec thinks a movie is supposed to look like which is fine unless you’re a gamer who isn’t down with the games he loves being turned into trash entertainment. Here they have failed to make a good movie but they at least respect the brand (yes, I know, because they own it) and are trying to expand the universe that they have already invested so much in. I could just never tell anybody that it is worth their 90 minutes. It feels like something my dad would watch and I don’t say that as a compliment. The acting is strained and hard to watch (Anna Popplewell as Chyler gets especially low marks) and the plot line was probably rushed through during a late Friday meeting. I’m glad it exists because this is the direction I want my entertainment to go in but anybody with discerning tastes will notice the stench on it.

Truthfully, the absolute best thing about this Blu-ray is the Blu-ray itself. Watching this movie in anything less than 1080p seems like a total waste to me. They didn’t skimp out on extras though I can’t say any of them really add a whole lot to the total package. There are two commentaries which are the highlight of the package, one from the guys at 343 Industries and the other by the director Stewart Hendler. There are also some concept art pieces and shots of the models which were used for the special effects though I wouldn’t recommend any of them as they just seem tacked to make it look like it comes with a lot of special features.

When the Halo series of video games recently celebrated its tenth anniversary, McFarlane Toys knew it was the perfect time to introduce a new series of action figures based on the classic Halo games that came before Halo: Reach. Our first commemorative series, Halo: Anniversary Series 1, debuted last October. But with so many great games to cover, one series wasn’t nearly enough. So the celebration continues this March with Halo: Anniversary Series 2!

Anniversary 2 brings an all-new version of Master Chief, fan-favorite Captain Keyes, a classic multiplayer Spartan from Halo 2, a new ODST to fill out your squad, and the long-awaited figure debut of the Forerunner constructs Guilty 343 Spark and a Sentinel. Plus, like the first Anniversary series, this series also includes a unique build-a-“figure” item. Collect all five figures, and assemble the included pieces to create a 3D version of the UNSC logo! Still not enough? In addition to the five individual figures, Anniversary 2 also offers an all-new 3-pack: the heroic “Red Team” Spartans from Halo Wars.

These are due in stores in March.

]]>http://insidepulse.com/2012/02/03/images-of-halo-anniversary-series-2-figures-from-mcfarlane/feed/0McFarlane Toys Announces Halo Universe: Anniversary Edition Series 2http://insidepulse.com/2011/10/25/mcfarlane-toys-announces-halo-universe-anniversary-edition-series-2/
http://insidepulse.com/2011/10/25/mcfarlane-toys-announces-halo-universe-anniversary-edition-series-2/#respondTue, 25 Oct 2011 17:32:12 +0000http://insidepulse.com/?p=273586For Halo fans, the tenth anniversary of Halo: Combat Evolved is a great opportunity to look back at how far their favorite game series has come. The anniversary has already brought us Halo Fest and an advance line of action figures, and a full line of figures with build-a-plaque is in stores now. It’s all leading up to the big event: the release of Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, on the exact date of Halo’s tenth anniversary in November! With so much excitement around the anniversary, we couldn’t stop at just one figure line… so we’re bringing our Halo Universe: Anniversary Edition back for a second series!

Halo Anniversary Series 2 brings you more fan-favorites from across the Halo universe with an all-new five-figure lineup, a new build-a-figure item, and a new figure multipack! Which characters are joining the celebration this time? Read on for all the details…

Build-a-Figure Item

UNSC Logo (Halo series)
Halo Anniversary Series 1 introduced our first Halo “build-a-figure” item, and Series 2 continues the trend with another unique bonus for collectors. Like last time, each figure comes with one of five pieces that can be combined to form an extra item to display with your Halo figure collection. For Series 2, that item is another iconic symbol that has been featured in every Halo video game: a 3D version of the logo of the United Nations Space Command. This distinctive military emblem consists of a stylized eagle with its wings spread, perching on a globe with a rippling banner — and can only be created by collecting all five of the individual figures in Halo Anniversary Series 2.

Individual Carded Figures

“The Package” Master Chief (Halo Legends)
We couldn’t have a Halo Anniversary celebration without including the man who started it all: Master Chief himself. This all-new version of John-117 shows the hero as he appeared in the 2010 animated movie, Halo Legends, and is our first figure inspired by the Halo “expanded universe” of animation, novels, and comic books. To truly capture Master Chief as he appeared in “The Package” chapter of Halo Legends, we’ve created an all-new sculpt that features a slightly more animated style, and updated paint that includes the distinctive white stripes and numbering as seen only in this thrilling adventure. Figure comes with Assault Rifle, Frag Grenade, and the globe piece of the UNSC Logo.

Captain Jacob Keyes (Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary)
Our first UNSC officer figure is the first person players ever see in the original Halo video game: the commanding officer of the Pillar of Autumn, Captain Jacob Keyes. This all-new figure features Keyes as he appears in this fall’s Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, in sharp gray military uniform. Figure comes with the fan-favorite Magnum pistol and the banner piece of the UNSC Logo.

Spartan Mark VI (white/blue) (Halo 2)
Back in Halo 2, before the addition of armor permutations, Master Chief’s MJOLNIR Mark VI armor was the basis for all multiplayer Spartans. Our first Halo 2 multiplayer Spartan action figure takes collectors back to those days — when about all you could do to customize yourself in matchmaking was change your primary and secondary armor color. Our multiplayer Spartan Mark VI features bright white armor with cool blue accents and comes equipped with the ever-popular Battle Rifle, a Frag Grenade, and the left wing piece of the UNSC Logo.

Sentinel and Guilty Spark (Halo 3)
The legacy of the most technologically advanced species in the Halo games, the Forerunners, can be seen in everywhere you turn — from the Hal array, to The Ark, to the curious robotic constructs they left behind to monitor and protect their installations. Halo Anniversary Series 2 brings a pair of these ancient machines to your collection: 343 Guilty Spark and a Sentinel.

Our massive Sentinel action figure features articulated appendages and weaponry, while Guilty Spark features a reversible eye that can be changed from blue to red. Is it a sign of justified aggression, or a symptom of AI rampancy? Figures include a base and poles so they can hover near your Flood figures, or assist any potential Reclaimers. Figures also come with the right wing piece of the UNSC Logo.

Mickey (Halo 3: ODST)
The demolitions expert and pilot of Buck’s ODST squad joins our action figure lineup: Private First Class Michael Crespo, better known as “Mickey.” This new figure, clad in black ODST armor with red accents, is in scale with our previous Halo 3: ODST figures, so Mickey won’t look out of place with his teammates. Figure comes with Mickey’s signature weapon, the Rocket Launcher. Mickey also comes with the eagle body piece of the UNSC Logo.

Boxed 3-Packs

Spirit of Fire Red Team (Halo Wars)
This special Halo Wars boxed set features three heroic Spartan-IIs: Jerome, Douglas, and Alice, collectively known as Red Team. This trio of super-soldiers fought alongside the crew of the Spirit of Fire, defending them from the dangers encountered on Shield 0459. Our Red Team 3-pack brings back the leader, Jerome-092, and completes the team with two never-before-released figures of Douglas-042 and Alice-130. Each includes some serious firepower to help them carry out their mission: Jerome comes with a Spartan Laser, Alice comes with dual SMGs, and Douglas comes with a Shotgun. One Spartan is a force to be reckoned with, but a coordinated team of them is virtually unstoppable. Go back to 2531, before the fall of Reach, and get the complete Red Team, all in one box!

Halo Universe: Anniversary Edition Series 2 charges into stores in March 2012.

Carter (unhelmeted)
The Noble Team Spartans of Halo: Reach, unlike Master Chief, are seen both with their helmets and without. This new, alternate version of Noble One brings back Carter with his unhelmeted appearance. Figure includes the new Spartan Laser weapon and a Frag Grenade.

Brute Chieftain
The tribal Jiralhanae troops are led by their Chieftains – towering Brutes, easily recognized by their ornate armor and powerful weaponry. Our second Brute figure from Halo: Reach captures every detail of the new look of this fearsome enemy. Figure includes the new Gravity Hammer weapon and a Plasma Grenade.

Skirmisher Murmillo
The Covenant Skirmisher makes its return in Halo: Reach Series 5, in the upgraded form of the Murmillo rank. Murmillos feature orange armor and a protective facemask, but really stand out on the battlefield due to the small energy shields they wear on each forearm. Figure also includes a Plasma Pistol and a Plasma Grenade.

Elite Ranger
Jetpacks aren’t only for multiplayer in Halo: Reach. While the UNSC has ODST Troopers with jetpacks, the Covenant have their own campaign character with aerial ability: the Elite Ranger. The Ranger rank and armor style features white armor with an enclosed helmet, integrated jetpack, and fully-sealed bodysuit for operations in the vacuum of space. Figure includes the all-new Focus Rifle weapon and a Plasma Grenade.

Spartan Gungnir custom (male) (olive/tan)
This heavily customized male Spartan features a top-of-the-line armor selection consisting of only the most expensive items available. From the Gungnir helmet with CBRN/HU/RS attachments to the Assault/Sapper chest with robotic arm, down to the Grenadier knee guards, this soldier spares no expense for protection and style. Figure features olive and tan armor, and includes the new Rocket Launcher weapon and a Frag Grenade.

Spartan Security (male) (team blue/team blue) [Toys “R” Us exclusive]
The popular Security helmet returns in an updated form in Halo: Reach – and the new helmet makes its action figure debut in Halo: Reach Series 5. Figure is ready for team-based multiplayer with his all-blue color scheme and includes Grenade Launcher and Frag Grenade. Exclusive to Toys “R” Us.

Spartan Operator (male) (team red/team red) [Target exclusive]
The Operator armor was developed exclusively for members of ONI’s Beta-5 Asymmetrical Action Group. Figure is ready for team-based multiplayer with his all-red color scheme and includes Spartan Laser and Frag Grenade. Exclusive to Target.

Carded CQB Custom Armor Pack (team red/team red) [Target exclusive]
Our popular boxed Armor Pack program is now available with the smaller cost and packaging of a single figure! These exclusive carded Armor Packs are perfect for collectors who already have several Spartan figures just want new armor pieces for them. This abridged set is packaged in a standard blister card and includes a CQB helmet, two UA/Multi-Threat shoulders, and a UA/Multi-Threat chest; a Security helmet and shoulder with a Base Security shoulder and chest; and a Mark V helmet, two Mark V shoulders, and a UA/Counter Assault chest. All armor pieces are in the bright “Team Red” color to match the Spartan Operator Target exclusive Spartan action figure.

Halo: Reach Series 5 – Boxed 2-Packs

Covenant Spec Ops
This follow-up to last series’ Spartan Specter 3-pack continues the stealth theme with a pair of Covenant troops from the Special Operations branch.

The Elite Spec Ops figure (introduced in Halo: Reach Series 3), with its dark gray armor, was already hard to see. This new version features the sneaky Sangheili with his active camouflage ability activated, granting him nearly complete invisibility.

His partner, the Grunt Spec Ops, is also designed for stealth and secrecy. This rank features a facemask and goggles, a two-pronged methane tank, and a dark black color scheme. Plus, if you’ve been collecting Grunts since Halo: Reach Series 1, this figure completes your collection of all five Unggoy ranks.

This 2-pack includes a clear Elite Spec Ops figure with Energy Sword, and a Grunt Spec Ops figure with Fuel Rod Gun. Each figure also includes a Plasma Grenade.

Halo: Reach Series 5 – Boxed Armor Packs

Halo: Reach offers players more armor variety and Spartan customization options than any previous Halo game by far. With this new emphasis on Spartan individuality, and a greatly expanded Armory, we knew action figure Armor Packs were a must for Halo: Reach. Like the Halo 3 armor packs, these new sets include one base Spartan figure and four complete sets of helmet, shoulders, and chestplates for hundreds of mix-and-match combinations.

Spartan Gungnir Armor Packs (Steel)
Spartan Gungnir Armor Packs (Sage)
The Spartan Gungnir Armor Pack includes a base male Spartan wearing the Gungnir helmet, two Gungnir shoulders, default chest, and Gungnir knee guards; plus three sets of supplemental, interchangeable armor. Additional armor sets are Recon (helmet, two shoulders, and Tactical/Recon chest), JFO (helmet, two shoulders, and HP/HALO chest), and HAZOP (helmet, two shoulders, and two Jump Jet shoulders). Each boxed Armor Pack also includes a bonus helmet; this one contains the EOD. Set is available in either default Steel or Sage.

These boxed sets complete the Armor Pack series started in Halo: Reach Series 4. By collecting all four packs, you’ll have every piece of basic helmet, shoulder, and chest armor available in the game!

Halo: Reach Series 5 – Vehicle Sets

Exodus Mongoose Set
The Halo: Reach level “Exodus” portrayed a major turning point in the Battle of Reach: the military’s shift in priorities from defense… to evacuation.

The Mongoose set inspired by this memorable level includes a Mongoose from the beachfront Caracalla Park area of New Alexandria, with mud splatter and battle-worn paint effects to represent the ongoing defeat and destruction of the UNSC’s defenses.

The Exodus Mongoose Set also includes a new version of the ODST Jetpack Trooper from the cargo port area of New Alexandria (first introduced in Halo: Reach Series 2). This updated version reflects the character’s appearance in the final game, including the distinctive ODST chestplate, shoulders, and wrists.

Mongoose with Team Blue EOD (custom)
In the Rocket Race gametype, four teams of two players each must escort their VIP to the level’s objective as quickly as possible. But the VIPs are no passive passengers: each is equipped with a Rocket Launcher – the perfect tool for blasting opponents off course!

This Mongoose set includes a Mongoose in Blue Team colors and a matching blue Spartan with EOD helmet, blue visor, HAZOP and CQC shoulders, Assault/Commando chest, Grenadier knee guards, and Rocket Launcher.

Halo: Reach Series 5 – Deluxe Boxed Set

Noble Team Deluxe Boxed Set
The 2010 blockbuster video game, Halo: Reach, introduced players to the six heroic Spartans of Noble Team, the veteran combat unit assigned to defend the UNSC’s military stronghold against the alien Covenant invaders. Now, for the first time, you can get all six action figures of the main characters – Carter, Kat, Jun, Emile, Jorge, and Noble Six – of Halo: Reach together in one box!

]]>http://insidepulse.com/2011/09/21/images-of-mcfarlanes-halo-reach-series-5/feed/0Halo Reach Series 6 Line-Up Announced By McFarlane Toyshttp://insidepulse.com/2011/09/12/halo-reach-series-6-line-up-announced-by-mcfarlane-toys/
http://insidepulse.com/2011/09/12/halo-reach-series-6-line-up-announced-by-mcfarlane-toys/#respondMon, 12 Sep 2011 15:36:18 +0000http://insidepulse.com/?p=265388Spawn.com has revealed the full line-up for Halo Reach Series 6.

Individual Carded Figures

Jun (unhelmeted)
The Noble Team Spartans of Halo: Reach, unlike Master Chief, are seen both with their helmets and without. This new, alternate version of Noble Three brings back Jun with his unhelmeted appearance. Figure includes his signature Sniper Rifle and a Frag Grenade.

Kat (unhelmeted)
The Noble Team Spartans of Halo: Reach, unlike Master Chief, are seen both with their helmets and without. This new, alternate version of Noble Two brings back Kat with her unhelmeted appearance. Figure includes her signature Magnum and a Frag Grenade.

Brute Major
The fearsome Jiralhanae, better known as Brutes, dominate the battlefield with their raw strength and savagery. Only those warriors who have proven themselves in battle may earn the right to wear the distinctive gold armor of the Major class. Figure comes with Spike Rifle and Plasma Grenade.

Elite Zealot
The Covenant dispatch Elite advance teams to hunt down artifacts of value to their religion. Such teams are small, nimble, and almost always Zealot-class. Our latest Elite figure features the unique armor and maroon color of the Sangheili Zealot. Figure comes with Concussion Rifle and Plasma Grenade.

Sabre Pilot
When the planet Reach was threatened by a Covenant supercarrier, Noble Team initiated the daring Operation: UPPER CUT to take it down. Noble Six and Jorge took the lead, but they couldn’t have succeeded without the assistance of the brave Sabre pilots of Echo Team. Our Sabre Pilot figure features the simple blue flightsuit and enclosed helmet of the UNSC Air Force — essential for the cramped cockpit conditions and proximity to the vacuum of space. Figure comes with DMR.

Spartan HazOp (male) (rust/rust)
Some operations are considered hazardous even for a fully armored Spartan. These ops call for the specialized HazOp armor set. This Spartan features the Hazardous Operations helmet and shoulders, orange “rust” paint, and includes a Focus Rifle and a Plasma Grenade. Exclusive to Toys “R” Us.

Spartan Recon (male) (team red/team red)
Developed in ONI’s Beta-5 Division Ordnance Testing Facility, the Recon armor was intended to offer stealth capabilities with little or no loss of endurance. This figure comes with matching Recon helmet, shoulders, and chestplate; is painted in bright “team one” red; and includes the intimidating Rocket Launcher weapon and a Frag Grenade. Exclusive to Target.

Team Objectives
Our first-ever Halo Accessory Pack brings the action of Halo: Reach multiplayer to your figure collection! Stage an epic match of Capture the Flag between your Red Team Spartans and Blue Team Spartans with detailed replicas of the highly coveted team flags — or pit your players against one another in a heated round of Assault with the Capture Plate and Assault Bombs. Want to throw an Elite or two into the mix? We’ve even included the Covenant version of the Assault Bomb, first introduced in the new map, Breakpoint. The Team Objectives Set includes a team red Spartan Mark V with Assault Rifle, a Red Flag with detachable base, Blue Flag with detachable base, UNSC Assault Bomb, Covenant Assault Bomb, and a Capture Plate.

Headhunter
Halo: Reach introduced several new gametypes to Halo multiplayer, including the fast-paced, chaotic mode known as Headhunter. In this free-for-all frenzy, players fight to collect flaming skulls and return them to the moving scoring zone. Whoever has collected the most at the end of the round wins! Our Headhunter 2-pack includes two Spartans and five flaming skulls for them to fight over. Player one is a male Spartan EVA custom with green and yellow armor, equipped with a DMR. Player two is a male Spartan Commando custom with violet and yellow armor, equipped with a Sniper Rifle. The five skulls included in this set all feature a unique sculpt, with flames rising from a different area of each elusive prize.

Boxed 3-Packs

Invasion
The multiplayer action continues with an expanded pack of figures based on the high-stakes, Spartan vs. Elite mode known as Invasion. On the Boneyard map, the Sangheili invaders team up to infiltrate a UNSC shipbreaking yard and steal a Data Core full of military secrets. The humans get their chance to infiltrate the enemy on the Spire map, which features a team of Spartans infiltrating a heavily guarded Covenant tower. Our Invasion 3-pack includes a red team Spartan Grenadier custom with Grenade Launcher, a blue team Elite General with Plasma Repeater, and both a UNSC Data Core and Covenant Data Core for each soldier to defend or capture.

Long Night of Solace
The unforgettable Halo: Reach campaign mission “Long Night of Solace” told the tale of Noble Team’s courageous operation to infiltrate and destroy an orbiting Covenant supercarrier. For the first time in the Halo game series, Spartans took the fight into space, utilizing Noble Six’s training as a pilot of the experimental Sabre spacecraft. Joining Six in the cockpit was his Spartan-II teammate, Jorge. Together, they faced waves of Covenant defenders, in both artificial gravity and low-gravity environments, to plant a bomb aboard their target and hopefully escape to fight the next battle. Our Long Night of Solace 3-pack commemorates this daring raid with a trio of figures from Operation: UPPERCUT. Set includes the unhelmeted version of Jorge with his Machine Gun Turret, the rare gold-armored version of the Elite Ranger, and Noble Six with Magnum and the all-new M-Spec Re-Entry Pack.

Small Vehicle Sets

Generator Defense
The unpredictable Firefight mode introduced in Halo 3: ODST returned in Halo: Reach with even more new and exciting gametypes. One such variant was Generator Defense, which features Spartans tasked with the protection of various electric generators threatened by the Covenant’s unexpected attack. Our Generator Defense set brings this critical military asset to your figure collection. Keep it safe! Generator features a lockdown shield that can be raised and lowered and a radar dish that spins and pivots. Set also includes a male Spartan JFO custom in sage and steel armor, equipped with a Shotgun to repel any Elites that get too close.

]]>http://insidepulse.com/2011/09/12/halo-reach-series-6-line-up-announced-by-mcfarlane-toys/feed/0In Stores Now: Halo Anniversary Advanced Serieshttp://insidepulse.com/2011/07/27/in-stores-now-halo-anniversary-advanced-series/
http://insidepulse.com/2011/07/27/in-stores-now-halo-anniversary-advanced-series/#respondWed, 27 Jul 2011 12:47:04 +0000http://insidepulse.com/?p=259239McFarlane’s Halo Anniversary series of figures have made their way to stores. Make sure you check those pegs for this first wave of figures based on Halo!

The tenth anniversary of the Halo franchise is coming this November, and McFarlane Toys is celebrating by bringing you even more Halo action figures!

In addition to this fall’s Halo: Reach Series 5, we’ll be releasing a special bonus series commemorating this milestone moment. Our Halo: Anniversary line consists of new and updated figures from the entire range of Halo video games, from 2001’s Halo: Combat Evolved through 2009’s Halo 3: ODST.

Halo: Anniversary’s diverse lineup includes a unique, low-polycount version of Master Chief as he appeared in the very first Halo game; an all-new figure of Dutch to supplement your ODST collection; an updated version of the Arbiter in Halo 2-style silver armor; a new color of Halo 3 Grunt; and a second chance to get the hard-to-find Cortana figure, originally released in limited quantities back in 2008.

To make this series even more special, each figure comes with a piece of our very first Halo build-a-figure! OK, it’s not really a “figure,” but it’s something all Halo fans recognize: the iconic skull-and-crossed swords emblem that represents the player’s selected level of difficulty! The more pieces you collect, the higher the difficulty your plaque will show. Get just the two halves of the plaque to represent Easy difficulty, add a sword or two to bump it up to Normal or Heroic, and finish it off with the Elite skull to make your emblem truly Legendary.

Joining the five-figure assortment is a pair of boxed three-packs. Our Master Chief Evolution set showcases the star of the Halo trilogy, while the Fearless Leaders collection highlights the field commanders of Halo Wars, Halo 3: ODST, and Halo: Reach.

Need more detail? Here’s the full rundown:

Halo: Anniversary Series 1

Master Chief (Halo: Combat Evolved)
This all-new figure portrays the hero of the Halo trilogy just as he appeared in the game that started it all: 2001’s Halo: Combat Evolved. The stylized, angular design is sure to remind long-time fans of how he appeared when he was first introduced ten years ago. This newest Master Chief is larger than our Halo 3 figures, and is perfectly in scale with our recent Halo: Reach collection. Figure comes with Assault Rifle, Frag Grenade, and the left half of the “Easy” Difficulty Plaque.

Dutch (Halo 3: ODST)
The heavy weapons specialist of Buck’s ODST squad joins our action figure lineup: Corporal Taylor H. Miles, better known as “Dutch.” This new figure is in scale with our previous Halo 3: ODST figures, so Dutch won’t look out of place with his teammates. Figure comes with Dutch’s signature weapon, the Spartan Laser. Dutch also comes with a Frag Grenade and the right half of the “Easy” Difficulty Plaque.

Cortana (Halo 3)
Originally released back in 2008 in our very first series of Halo action figures, Cortana returns for the 10th Anniversary of the Halo franchise. This figure features clear blue plastic and a light-up base to represent her holographic appearance. Cortana also comes with a knife for the Difficulty Plaque that can be added to upgrade it to “Normal” difficulty.

Arbiter (Halo 2)
Another classic character from our earliest Halo lines returns for the 10th Anniversary: the Arbiter, originally from Halo 3 Series 2. Thel ‘Vadam comes with the ceremonial armor of the Arbiter rank, a Covenant Energy Sword, and a Plasma Grenade. Figure also comes with the second knife for the Difficulty Plaque, upgrading it to “Heroic” level.

Grunt (black) (Halo 3)
The ever-popular Unggoy Grunts come in many colors and ranks, and the Halo Anniversary series introduces a new figure is clad in dark, stealthy gray armor, and comes with a Fuel Rod Gun and a Plasma Grenade. If you’re collecting all the pieces of the Difficulty Plaque, this small figure comes with a big bonus: the Elite skull that finishes the emblem and upgrades it to “Legendary” status.

Difficulty Plaque (Halo series)
The Difficulty Plaque is our very first Halo “build-a-figure” item. This iconic symbol has been featured in every Halo game, and is the perfect emblem to celebrate ten years of Halo. The Difficulty Plaque is only available by collecting these special Anniversary figures, and the more you collect, the higher the difficulty you can create! The completed plaque measures approximately three inches tall, and comes with attachments for displaying it on a desk or hanging it on a wall.

Halo: Anniversary 3-Packs

Master Chief Evolution 3-Pack
The star of the Halo trilogy has evolved quite a bit over the past decade, and the Master Chief Evolution 3-Pack covers his three best-known versions. Representing the first Halo game is the Halo: Combat Evolved Master Chief. Figure includes Mark V armor, Assault Rifle, Frag Grenade, and a unique “low polygon count” design. Straight from the cover of the second game is our Halo 2 Master Chief, with Mark VI armor, dual-wielded SMGs, and a Frag Grenade. Finishing the fight is the Halo 3 Master Chief. This figure includes battle-damaged Mark VI armor, a Sniper Rifle and a Frag Grenade. As an added bonus, both the Halo 2 and Halo 3 versions have been recreated at a larger size to fit in perfectly with the Halo: Combat Evolved Master Chief and our recent Halo: Reach figures.

Fearless Leaders 3-Pack
Master Chief may be the most well-known leader of the Halo series, but fans know he’s not the only one. The “Fearless Leaders” 3-pack celebrates a trio of other bold heroes from the blockbuster Halo games. Representing Halo 3: ODST is the leader of its Helljumper squad, Gunnery Sergeant Edward Buck. Buck features his signature Assault Rifle and comes with a removable ODST helmet. The real-time-strategy game, Halo Wars, introduced several new leaders to the Halo universe, including the UNSC Marine, Sergeant John Forge. Forge features his forest camouflage armor and Shotgun. The latest game, Halo: Reach, introduced players to the Spartan-IIIs of Noble Team, and their leader, Carter. The Fearless Leaders 3-pack includes the original helmeted version of Carter with his Designated Marksman Rifle and a Frag Grenade.

Halo: Anniversary Series 1 – Advance

Can’t wait until October? Neither can we! McFarlane Toys is kicking off the celebration early, with an “advance wave” of Anniversary figures hitting the shelves of major retailers in late July! For this preview line, we’re bringing back four figures from our very first Halo game license, Halo 3. Halo Anniversary – Advance consists of:

Spartan Recon (team red)
The most highly-sought after armor of Halo 3 makes a return to store shelves, this time, in classic “team one” red. Comes with Plasma Rifle. Figure also includes the deactivated Energy Sword hilt accessory, previously only available with the SDCC-exclusive Grifball figure.

ODST
The ever-popular Orbital Drop Shock Trooper, first released back in Halo 3 Series 2, drops in with an updated paint scheme that now includes the white stripes on the shoulder armor. Figure is equipped with a Battle Rifle.

Elite Combat (purple)
The classic Combat armor and the classic Covenant purple color scheme combine to create the definitive Elite action figure. Is this Sangheili warrior a frightening new enemy, as in Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, or a powerful new ally of humanity, as in Halo 3?

Halo: Anniversary – Advance will be in Walmart and Target stores in late July. This teaser line is being produced in lower quantities than the full Anniversary line, so if you see them, act fast!

Toys “R” Us Captures Collectors’ Consciousness in Entertainment Earth Booth #2343 at Comic-Con International in San Diego

A Special Selection of Official Show Exclusives and First-to-Buy Opportunities Makes Toys “R” Us Items “Must-Haves”

The World’s Greatest Toy Store continues its profound partnership with Entertainment Earth at this year’s annual Comic-Con International in San Diego, and will no doubt contribute to the euphoria of the participating action figure and comic book enthusiasts. In honor of the show’s forty-second year, and the company’s thrilling third year in attendance, from Wednesday, July 20 through Sunday, July 24, Toys “R” Us will offer an extraordinary extravaganza of official San Diego Comic-Con merchandise, including toys based on characters from TRANSFORMERS, ThunderCats and DCU vs. MOTU. Continuing last year’s magnificent merge with Entertainment Earth, every Toys “R” Us Comic-Con exclusive will be available at Entertainment Earth Booth #2343.

To help commemorate these dynamic deals from Toys “R” Us, Entertainment Earth will be hosting several exceptional events:

On Thursday, July 21, from 10 to 11:30 am, Spawn creator and renowned toy designer Todd McFarlane of McFarlane Toys will be available to sign autographs in celebration of the Toys “R” Us San Diego Comic-Con debut of the Halo “Master Chief Platinum” action figure.

On Friday, July 22, from 5 – 7 pm, Larry Kenney, who voiced the Lion-O in the classic ThunderCats animated series will be available to sign autographs of the Classic Lion-O action figure from Bandai America Incorporated.

Fans who are unable to attend the show can still purchase the exclusive Toys “R” Us San Diego Comic-Con merchandise online at Toysrus.com/comiccon2011 starting Thursday, July 21. However, there is a limited number of each item, so fans should visit Entertainment Earth at booth #2343 or Toysrus.com/comiccon2011 early to purchase the below action figures.

HALO “Master Chief Platinum” Action Figure from McFarlane Toys

To celebrate the 10th anniversary of one of the most popular video game franchises, Microsoft’s Halo, McFarlane Toys has released a commemorative edition of the game’s iconic SPARTAN-II super soldier protagonist! Now fans can own the platinum-painted version of John-117, who comes Covenant combat-ready, equipped with his MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Mark VI armor and classic assault rifle. This anniversary edition of Master Chief features full articulation and is the same height as Halo: Reach figures. Collectors will also be able to get their copy of Master Chief specially signed by its creator, Todd McFarlane, on Thursday, July 21 from 4 to 5:30pm! Be sure to pick up your figure at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con before it hits stores in August, along with the rest of the Halo: Anniversary line!

Summer is almost here, and, like the temperature, our Halo action figures are just getting warmed up! You may be making plans to beat the heat in an air-conditioned movie theater, but McFarlane Toys has a summer blockbuster of its own heading your way. This July marks the release of our biggest Halo line to date — Halo: Reach Series 4.

After three best-selling lines of Halo: Reach figures, we’ve got plenty of great new collectibles ready to get you through to the holiday season. This special summer series is packed with figure firsts: our first unhelmeted Noble Team member, our first Halo: Reach Brute figure, our first Halo 3-packs, our first Halo: Reach armor packs, and even our first Halo vehicle in multiplayer colors!

Individual Carded Figures

Jorge (unhelmeted)
The Noble Team Spartans of Halo: Reach, unlike Master Chief, are seen both with their helmets and without. This new, alternate version of Noble Five brings back Jorge with his unhelmeted appearance. Figure includes Jorge’s signature M247T Heavy Machine Gun and backpack.

Brute Minor
The imposing Jiralhanae “Brutes” are first encountered in Halo: Reach as Covenant shock troops, tearing apart the urban metropolis of New Alexandria. Our first Halo: Reach Brute action figure is the most commonly encountered version, the Brute Minor. Figure includes a Brute Spike Rifle and Plasma Grenade.

Elite General
This hero-level Elite invader features the all-new, eye-catching gold armor of the General rank. Figure includes matching Fuel Rod Gun and Plasma Grenade.

Grunt Major
This Unggoy specialist features the new two-pronged methane tank design introduced in Halo: Reach, and the orange-red armor color that identifies him as a Major. Figure includes Needler and Plasma Grenade.

UNSC Marine
These elite Troopers, deployed from the cruiser Pillar of Autumn, can be seen in the climactic level of Halo: Reach – assisting Noble Six and Emile as they race to deliver “The Package” to safety. These Marines feature distinctive elements such as darker toned camouflage, fully enclosed helmets, and Base Security shoulder armor. Figure includes Assault Rifle.

Spartan Mark V (male) (team blue/team blue)
The Mark V armor is a true fan-favorite, and has been featured in multiple games throughout the Halo series. This Spartan features the iconic armor in classic Blue Team colors. Figure includes Assault Rifle and Frag Grenade.

Spartan ODST (male) (steel/pale) [GameStop exclusive]
The Spartan ODST helmet shares the design of the Orbital Drop Shock Troopers’ version, but has been upgraded for use with MJOLNIR. Figure also includes ODST shoulders and chest, with a steel/pale paint scheme reminiscent of the troopers from Halo 3: ODST. Figure comes armed with a DMR and Frag Grenade.

Carded Air Assault Armor Pack (rust/rust) [Toys “R” Us exclusive]
Our popular boxed Armor Pack program is now available with the smaller cost and packaging of a single figure! These exclusive carded Armor Packs are perfect for collectors who already have several Spartan figures and just want new armor pieces for them. This abridged set is packaged in a standard blister card and includes an Air Assault helmet, two FJ/Para shoulders, and a default chest; an ODST helmet, two ODST shoulders, and a UA/ODST chest; and an EVA helmet, two EVA shoulders, and a Collar/Breacher chest. All armor pieces are in the orange “Rust” color to match the Spartan CQC Toys “R” Us exclusive Spartan action figure.

Carded Air Assault Armor Pack (team red/team red) [Target exclusive]
Our popular boxed Armor Pack program is now available with the smaller cost and packaging of a single figure! These exclusive carded Armor Packs are perfect for collectors who already have several Spartan figures just want new armor pieces for them. This abridged set is packaged in a standard blister card and includes an Air Assault helmet, two FJ/Para shoulders, and a default chest; an ODST helmet, two ODST shoulders, and a UA/ODST chest; and a CQC helmet, two CQC shoulders, and a Tactical/LRP chest. All armor pieces are in the bright “Team Red” color to match the Spartan EVA Target exclusive Spartan action figure.

Boxed 2-Packs

Spartan Hologram 2-Pack
The Armor Abilities of Halo: Reach offer new ways to customize your Spartan to fit your playstyle. If deception is your preferred tactic, the Hologram ability will have your foes shooting at decoys while you remain in cover. This set includes an updated version of Noble Six, reflecting his default appearance in Halo: Reach, and a special “hologram” figure in translucent blue; just like when the ability is activated in the game.

Boxed Armor Packs

Spartan Air Assault Custom Armor Packs (steel/steel and team blue/team blue)
Halo: Reach offers players more armor variety and Spartan customization options than any previous Halo game by far. With this new emphasis on Spartan individuality, and a greatly expanded Armory, we knew action figure Armor Packs were a must for Halo: Reach. Like the Halo 3 armor packs, these new sets include one base Spartan figure and four complete sets of helmet, shoulders, and chestplates for hundreds of mix-and-match combinations.

The Spartan Air Assault Custom Armor Pack includes a base male Spartan wearing the Air Assault helmet, two FJ/Para shoulders, default chest, and FJ/Para knee guards; plus three sets of supplemental, interchangeable armor. Additional armor sets are ODST (helmet, two shoulders, and chest), EVA (helmet, two shoulders, and a Collar/Breacher chest), and CQC (helmet, two shoulders, and a Tactical/LRP chest). Each boxed Armor Pack also includes a bonus helmet; this one contains the Military Police. Set is available in either default Steel or Team Blue.

Spartan Grenadier Armor Packs (steel/steel and team red/team red)
The Spartan Grenadier Armor Pack is based on Noble Team’s armor, and includes a base male Spartan wearing the Grenadier helmet, two Grenadier shoulders, Collar/Grenadier chest, and Grenadier knee guards; plus three sets of supplemental, interchangeable armor. Additional armor sets are Commando (helmet, two shoulders, and chest), Scout custom (Scout helmet, two Sniper shoulders, and Tactical/Patrol chest), and EVA [C] custom (EVA [C] helmet, Security shoulder, Operator shoulder, and Assault/Sapper chest). Each boxed Armor Pack also includes a bonus helmet; this one contains the Mark VI. Set is available in either default Steel or Team Red.

Vehicle Sets

Boxed 3-Packs

Spartan Specter 3-Pack
Active Camouflage has been a staple of the Halo series of video games. In Halo: Reach, the power of invisibility returns as an Armor Ability – and with a new twist. Available as part of the “Specter” equipment loadout, Active Camo now varies based on the speed of the camouflaged Spartan’s movement. A Spartan Specter that stands perfectly still is nearly completely invisible, but a Spartan that moves too much will be faintly visible to enemies! Move too fast, or run out of activation time, and your Spartan will return to full visibility. This unique 3-pack represents all stages of a Specter’s invisibility, showing one Spartan in three distinctly different versions. Figures include the cutting-edge Mark VI helmet, UA/Multi-Threat shoulders, UA/ODST chest, and default knee guards. The fully-visible Spartan features a dark Maroon paint scheme, the completely invisible version is cast in clear plastic, and the partially visible version features translucent colored plastic. Each version comes with the close-quarters Shotgun weapon – perfect for unloading on that unsuspecting enemy you’ve stealthily snuck up behind.

Infection 3-Pack
One of the most popular Halo gametypes returns in Halo: Reach – the “humans vs. zombies” mode called Infection. In this mode, one player is chosen at random to become a “zombie.” Anyone then killed by the zombie joins the ranks of the undead! Halo Zombies can easily be identified by their unique sickly green armor color and their exclusive use of the close-range Covenant Energy Sword. Human players had better keep their distance and pick them off with a long-range weapon like the DMR! This special 3-pack celebrates the fun, fast-paced Infection gametype by including two Spartan Zombies facing off against a lone Spartan Human. The “last man standing” features an ODST helmet with Gold visor, Sniper and FJ/Para shoulders, UA/Base Security chest, Tactical/Trauma Kit utility, and FJ/Para knee guards. One Spartan Zombie comes with a Pilot helmet with Black visor, Collar/Breacher [R] chest with skeletal robotic arm, Jump Jet shoulder, and Grenadier knee guards. The other Zombie is equipped with a HazOp helmet with Black visor, Operator shoulders, Collar/Breacher [R] chest with skeletal robotic arm, and FJ/Para knee guards. Each Spartan Zombie is painted in “zombie green” and comes with an Energy Sword. Spartan Human has a blue & gold paint scheme and comes with a DMR.